Windstream Expands VoIP Services

Leading rural telecom carrier Windstream CorporationAT&T (T) and Verizon (VZ) and broadband
(WIN) has expanded the coverage of itsservices by leading cable operators, like Comcast
next-generation VoIP solutions (bundles voice, data(CMCSA) and Time Warner Cable (TWC) are
and broadband Internet) as the carrier has reportedlyimpeding Windstream's addressable market.
launched the service in Omaha, Nebraska. This followsTo strengthen customer retention and fend off
the company's recent service expansion in Northwestcompetition, Windstream is offering attractive
Arkansas.bundled services to its customers. As part of this
The VoIP solutions combine voice and Interneteffort, the company is marketing Triple-Play services
services over a single IP connection using theto its residential customers that combine voice (local
customer's existing phone system, which eliminateslong-distance), video and broadband Internet services.
the need for buying new equipment, resulting inWindstream launched a new VoIP solution called
considerable cost savings. The service offers multiple"Dynamic Office - Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)" in
advanced features including fast downlink and uplinkJanuary 2010. The converged service has further
capabilities, intelligent call routing and sophisticatedboosted the carrier's presence in the enterprise
messaging. Moreover, it also promotes remotecommunication space. The company's converged
connectivity, thereby boosting workforcebusiness solutions also include "Total Office", a fully
productivity and mobility.managed business phone system and Internet
Windstream is one of the leading rural telecomsolution.
carriers in the US with approximately 3 million fixedWindstream continues to acquire smaller rural carriers
access lines, 1.13 million broadband connections andto expand its customer base and revenues. The
roughly 369,000 digital TV subscribers. However, thecompany is expected to complete its acquisition of
company remains challenged by the steady decreaselocal exchange carrier Iowa Telecom (IWA) on June
in its fixed-line voice business given the rapid1, 2010. The carrier spent more than $2.2 billion on
customer migration to cellular and cable TV services.acquisitions in 2009.
Wireless services from Tier-1 carriers, such as